PPB Continues Targeted Patrols in Response to Sex Trafficking Activity

Since late July, the Portland Police Bureau (PPB) has continued targeted patrols along Northeast 82nd Avenue and Northeast Sandy Boulevard in response to ongoing community concerns and observed nuisance and livability issues related to sex trafficking.

These directed patrols were a coordinated effort among multiple agencies, including PPB's Human Trafficking Unit (HTU), North Precinct Priority Project, East, North, and Central Precincts, Detective Division, Victim Services Unit, Multnomah County Sheriff's Office, Multnomah County District Attorney's Office, Multnomah County Parole & Probation, Oregon State Police, the FBI, and Safety Compass.

The following individuals were arrested or cited for Commercial Sexual Solicitation (ORS 167.008) and/or Unlawful Prostitution Procurement Activities (Portland City Code 14A.40.050), and in some cases, other charges:

Dires Akalu, 45, Portland, OR

Josue Bernabe-Gonzales, 25, Kelso, WA

Tomas Bulux-Velasquez, 32, Vancouver, WA

Todd Campbell, 26, Spanaway, WA

Jordin Chacaj-Lopez, 23, Hillsboro, OR

Pedro Francisco-Mateo, 48, Portland, OR

Samuel Gavrilita, 21, Vancouver, WA

Elias Garcia-Perez, 26, Vancouver, WA

Melito Guillermo, 20, Portland, OR

Jason Kobbe, 24, Beaverton, OR

Julien Krein, 24, Gresham, OR

Jose Luengo-Bastarrica, 29, Portland, OR

Oscar Martinez-Amaro, 25, Portland, OR

Paul Newton, 52, Mt. Angel, OR

Brandon Pedroza, 32, Sherwood, OR

Jermick Phaynid, 24, Portland, OR

Kevin Shults, 66, Portland, OR

Matthew Stoner, 32, Portland, OR

Alejandro Vargas-Manzano, 46, Gresham, OR

Kevin Zurita-Varela, 19, Portland, OR

During these targeted patrols, five vehicles were towed, at least one firearm was recovered, and additional intelligence was gathered related to suspected buyers, traffickers, and ongoing investigations.

Officers and advocates contacted 21 individuals believed to be involved in the sex trade, offering support and connection to services. HTU works closely with PPB's Victim Services Unit and community partner Safety Compass, a non-profit organization that provides trauma-informed advocacy to youth and young adults under 25 who identify as survivors of commercial sexual exploitation and human trafficking.

HTU cases are often complex, with barriers that include repeated trauma, trauma bonds with traffickers, and fear of retaliation. Survivors may be reluctant to report or participate in the criminal justice process. PPB and its partners remain committed to providing victim-centered, trauma-informed services in every case.

If you know or suspect someone is being trafficked, please call 911, PPB's non-emergency line 503-823-3333, or the National Human Trafficking Hotline 1-888-373-7888. Non-emergency Portland-related tips can also be reported to [email protected].

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